 "Photo: Courtesy of Andrew Christian")
Last time you read my column, I described my circus-like experiences at the Andrew Christian underwear fashion show at Just John’s in the Grove. Although it was difficult to get a thorough response from Mr. Christian on such a busy night, I had a chance to ask him some questions, and hopefully you will find his responses inspirational.
Stay Stylish,
Ginika Agbim
Q: Who was your main source of inspiration to become a fashion designer?
A: I took inspiration from many sources as a youth, but mostly from visionaries like Madonna, Andy Warhol and James Dean who carved out their own paths.
Q: What is the story behind your decision to start an underwear line?
A: My main drives and inspirations are beauty and design. I really wanted to give underwear the attention and detail that is usually given to prêt-a-porter. I feel I am elevating underwear to outerwear.
Q: Some designers name their shoes and bags. Do you name your underwear?
A: I don’t believe in naming designs after people. I have seen this done by other designers, and quite honestly, it irks me a bit. Do you really want to wear the Johnny Brief or Amanda Camisole? I think not; people want to really personalize their items and make them their own.
Q: I remember seeing you on “The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency.” How has appearing on the show helped your business?
A: It was an amazing experience. I had so much fun working with Janice, and it was good to see how professionally she works. It was really great for business as well; it exposed my designs to an audience that at the time was not familiar with Andrew Christian.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle you and your fashion team have faced in the past decade?
A: The biggest obstacle was the launch of my underwear line. I have actually only been producing underwear for two years. Prior to that, I was designing and producing sportswear. Underwear looked like it was easy to design and produce, but it’s the exact opposite. It took me a while in product development to get the fits and construction I wanted in the underwear so that they would be of enough quality that I could put the Andrew Christian name on them.
Q: If you could give aspiring fashion designers one piece of advice, what would you say?
A: Persistence; that is the key to success. I was not an overnight success. I had many doors slammed in my face before I made it. You just have to keep your dream alive and never stop working in the direction of achieving it.
Q: Where do you see your brand going in the next five years?
A: Complete lifestyle brand. The foundation being underwear and going to sportswear, evening wear, in order to encompass every part of your life.
Q: What is one quote that you live by?
A: Never give up.
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